The Importance of Black Storytelling: Texas State's African American Read-In
Maneka Brooks
In the 1990, the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) established the National African American Read-In. In collaboration with colleagues from across campus, I was able to host the first read-in at Texas State on February 27th. The title of the event was: “The Importance of Black Storytelling: Texas State’s African American Read-In.” The two-hour event was divided into two sections. During the first part, participants were invited to read silently, aloud, or in small groups. Individuals of all ages and from multiple linguistic backgrounds decided to step-up to the podium and read aloud! The second part of the program consisted of an interactive panel of esteemed faculty from Texas State University and San Marcos High School: Dr. drea brown, Dr. Christian Hines, Dr. Casey Nichols, Mr. Tommie Jackson, and Ms. Blanca Loya. I served as the panels moderator. This panel provided insight and involved the audience in in-depth conversations that covered a multitude of topics. Thanks to our sponsors we were able to provide food and Black literature to the attendees. In all, more than 95 individuals from on- and off-campus participated. I have included the flier and some pictures taken by Carlos Anguiano and Charlcee Certvantez.
